Here’s what Trump had to say.
President-elect Donald Trump made it clear over the weekend that, despite the heated rhetoric of the past, he is not focused on pursuing retribution against his political opponents once in office. In a recent interview with NBC’s Meet the Press, Trump signaled that he would be taking a more measured approach to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and FBI, downplaying previous suggestions of a sweeping campaign to target his adversaries.
Trump’s comments come at a time when the Biden administration is reportedly considering issuing pardons for several individuals who have been at odds with the former president, including Dr. Anthony Fauci, former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.), and special counsel Jack Smith. While Trump has been vocal about his belief that these individuals should face consequences for their roles in the events surrounding January 6, he made it clear he would not be directing federal agencies to go after them once he assumes office.
“I’m not going to instruct the Attorney General or FBI Director to target them,” Trump said, adding that he would focus on policy priorities like expanding domestic energy production, saying, “I’m going to focus on drill, baby, drill.” This marks a shift from earlier rhetoric, where Trump had hinted at using the power of the DOJ to go after his political enemies, including those involved in investigations against him.
When pressed about whether he would direct his incoming Attorney General, Pam Bondi, to investigate figures like Jack Smith, Trump responded that he wanted her to act independently. “I think he’s very corrupt,” Trump said of Smith, but emphasized that any investigation would be up to Bondi and her team to decide based on the facts.
The former president also made it clear that he wouldn’t be encouraging his allies to pursue a vendetta against the so-called “Deep State,” a term that Trump has used to describe individuals within the government bureaucracy who have opposed him. He downplayed concerns about his potential decision to appoint loyalists like Kash Patel to high-level positions, emphasizing that the focus should remain on policy and moving the country forward, not looking backward.
Trump’s stance signals a more pragmatic approach to governing, one that prioritizes advancing conservative principles and ensuring the success of the country over personal retribution. He stated, “Retribution will be through success,” a sentiment that resonates with many Republicans who are eager for a focus on results rather than prolonged investigations and battles over past grievances.
In closing, Trump’s comments reflect his understanding that while accountability is important, it’s the policies and achievements of his administration that will ultimately define his legacy. With his eyes firmly set on the future, the president-elect is signaling to his supporters that he will not be bogged down by personal vendettas, but will instead focus on making America prosperous again.